Jim Thomas has gone on two DFA missions in Guatemala and seven in Nicaragua. His wife Annie has done one mission with DFA in Guatemala and six in Nicaragua. Jim’s daughter Jamie also travelled with him once to Guatemala, and his daughter Jackie went once to Nicaragua. Jim and Dennis Bedard were classmates in Dentistry.
After hearing of Dennis and Bev Bedard’s amazing charitable trips, Jim and Annie decided to make the sacrifice and join them. In retrospect, the Thomas’ say that this turned out to be no sacrifice, but instead a very rewarding experience. Living in their villages and seeing first hand what these poor people’s lives are like is inspirational. They have so little but are generous, wonderful people. Children playing happily without any toys or shoes. Families host meals for us with their best even though they have little for themselves. Being able to relieve their pain or improve their smile is truly an honor. Jim and Annie feel fortunate to have gone on these trips with DFA, serving these communities and gaining many wonderful experiences, memories and friendships.